Some plants start winding down in early autumn, but that's when Kickin 'Lilac Blue' aster starts to come into its own! This unique late season bloom time not only gives you delightfully unexpected color, it also creates a fresh, nectar-rich food source for pollinators at this crucial time. We love this native perennial paired with ornamental grasses, the cool silver of pycnanthemum, or any of the number of late-blooming native perennials. After all, you can't go wrong with blue flowers - especially when they come on a sturdy, disease-resistant plant like this one.
Also known as New England aster.
Vital details:
Plant size: 2-3' tall x wide
Light: full sun (6+ hrs/day)
Water: Average water requirements. Water more often in extreme heat
Hardiness: USDA zone 5-9 (Find your hardiness zone)
Pollinator value: attracts butterflies of all types, as well as other pollinating insects
Notable features: deer & rabbit resistant, long-blooming, drought tolerant, native
Pot size: one quart
Plant name: Symphyotrichum novae-angliae 'Lilac Blue'